About the Zoo
New Zealand's first zoo, Wellington Zoo was founded in 1906 when a young lion was presented to Wellington city by the Bostock and Wombwell Circus.
Zoos have changed drastically over the last hundred years and Wellington Zoo is committed to a future in conservation education by bringing animals and people closer together.
Wellington Zoo Trust
Historically, Wellington Zoo operated under the auspices of the Wellington City Council. However, in June 2003 the Zoo became a charitable trust and it is now governed by a board of six trustees with the Wellington City Council as principal funder.
Board Members
Denise Church (Chair); Phillip Meyer (Deputy Chair); Lee Parkinson; Frances Russell; Celia Wade-Brown; Ross Martin
How you can support the Zoo
Click here to find out how you can support Wellington Zoo on our journey to becoming the best little Zoo in the world.
ARAZPA
Wellington Zoo is a member of the Australasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria (ARAZPA); an umbrella organisation for zoos in the Australasian region. Zoos under this organisation are committed to cooperatively managing their animal collections in ways that promote their sustainability and value as a conservation resource.
Wellington Zoo is home to 500-odd animals all of which are part of the Australasian Species Management Programme (ASMP). This programme works to increase animal species numbers through breeding and involves exchanging animals between zoos in the Australasian region to encourage new blood lines.
What do we offer?
Magical conservation experiences play a vital role at Wellington Zoo. There are so many exciting opportunities at the Zoo. Click on the links below to find out more about our products.
Close Encounters
Animal Adoptions
Sleepovers
Venue Hire
Learning Experiences Outside the Classroom
As a community organisation, Wellington Zoo holds special events throughout the year. Check out the Events Calendar to find out what's coming up.
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